I think this destruction of history, or revisionism, occurs because of pandering. There seems to be a need to create nonconfrontational space everywhere. Also, the topic seems to generate work, i.e. the new introductions to reinstated classics like GWTW. Another problem is the lack of discipline exercised when watching film. It seems true that one must be schooled in interpretation and how to watch film attentively. There are no throwaway lines, symbols, or referents in film. If people understood that, they might see the film through less jaundiced eyes. Without that deep understanding of history, Tom Penrod, those referents are no more than set dressing to most contemporary viewers.
